Light 4.2 Earthquake – Mozambique
A light magnitude 4.2 earthquake struck near Mozambique on Thursday, September 24, 2026 at 10:21:29 AM UTC. This intermediate focal depth (164.0 km depth) released energy equivalent to approximately 30 tons of TNT. Here is the verified EMSC telemetry, live epicenter map, and ground shaking assessment.
Seismic Telemetry Specifications
4.2ML
Light Seismic Class
164.0km
Upper Mantle
15.097° S, 44.093° E
GPS Coordinates
30 tons
TNT Equivalent Power
EMSC
USGS Real-time Feed
Epicenter Location & Tectonic Fault Map
Is This Earthquake Dangerous?
A magnitude 4.2 event is classified as a light earthquake. Noticeable shaking of indoor objects and rattling doors/windows. Generally causes none to slight non-structural damage in older buildings.
Estimated Shaking Across Nearby Communities
The epicenter occurred in a remote or offshore marine sector with no major population centers situated within the primary ground shaking perimeter.
Did You Feel This Earthquake?
Help seismologists and community members map real-world ground shaking near Mozambique.
Your immediate response verifies shaking boundaries and helps ground-truth instrumental models.
What Does Magnitude 4.2 Mean?
Earthquake strength is measured on a logarithmic scale. Compare this event with the full seismic scale:
Logarithmic Energy Multiplier
Because seismic scales are logarithmic, each whole integer increase represents:
Why Did This Earthquake Happen?
Mozambique's seismicity is fundamentally governed by its tectonic setting: Hosts the southernmost onshore extension of the East African Rift System along the Urema Graben (Gorongosa) and Mozambican continental margin, transitioning into active diffuse oceanic spreading.. Major regional fault structures include Urema Graben Border Faults, Chicamba Fault Zone, Drakensberg-Limpopo Lineament, Mozambique Channel Offshore Faults.
Originating at a depth of 164.0 km (Upper Mantle / Wadati-Benioff Zone (70–300 km)), this rupture occurred originated within the descending oceanic plate inside the upper mantle. shaking radiates over a wider geographic area with attenuated high frequencies.
Aftershock Outlook & Secondary Tremors
Seismologists note that minor aftershocks remain common in the 24 to 48 hours following tremors of magnitude 4.2. According to statistical seismic models, there is roughly a 5% probability of a subsequent event of equal or greater strength occurring in the same fault zone. Residents in Mozambique are advised to check living spaces for unsecured items.
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Earthquake Safety Action Plan
Complete Safety Guide →- •Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Take cover beneath a sturdy table or desk.
- •Stay indoors away from exterior glass windows and heavy unanchored fixtures.
- •If outdoors, move into an open area away from power lines and building facades.
- •Inspect utilities for damaged gas lines, water leaks, or electrical hazards.
- •Expect Aftershocks: Secondary tremors frequently strike after significant events.
- •Avoid damaged structures and listen to official emergency broadcasts.
- •Maintain a 72-hour emergency go-bag with water, food, and first aid.
- •Anchor heavy furniture, water heaters, and appliances to structural studs.
- •Establish a family emergency communication protocol and meeting point.
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